After Erin Beane (MSAPK ’22) discovered that computer science wasn’t the right fit for her, she couldn’t have guessed that switching to exercise science would ultimately lead her to the most magical place on earth. Rising through Walt Disney World Resort’s ranks from cast member to exercise coordinator is a testament to her dedication, resilience and drive to make a difference. Today, she brings her unique combination of expertise and passion to enhance the well-being of those who make the magic happen.

Her path into wellness and exercise science started in her home state of California, where she graduated in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and exercise science. But just three weeks before graduation, she experienced the loss of her father to lung cancer. This profound loss became a turning point, motivating her to dedicate her career to promoting health and wellness, especially for individuals affected by chronic illnesses. Inspired to explore exercise interventions in cancer care, Beane carried this passion forward into her graduate studies at the UF College of Health & Human Performance, where she pursued her master’s degree in applied physiology and kinesiology.

Her journey with Disney began 10 years ago when she completed her first Disney College Program, which offered her the chance to learn and grow within the community. In 2019, she returned to Disney, and since then, she has become an integral part of the company, advancing from working in attractions to a guest relations hostess role. During this time, she also began her master’s program, balancing her studies with her work at Disney.

Equipped with a strong foundation of academic training and experiences with Disney, Beane earned the role of exercise coordinator and is a certified exercise physiologist. In this role, she oversees the wellness facility, where she and her team manage gym operations, maintain the cleanliness and functionality of the facility, ensure supplies are well-stocked and handle payroll. Yet, her responsibilities extend far beyond. Her primary focus is providing personalized wellness consultations to cast members, a community of over 1,800 in Florida alone. She tailors each consultation to meet individual fitness needs and health goals, offering a unique combination of care and expertise to support each cast member’s well-being.

With a deep commitment to helping others, Beane draws on her education and life experiences to make a positive impact. Her focus on chronic disease prevention, especially those affected by cancer, remains at the heart of her approach to fitness programming and wellness support. Through her work, she brings a touch of magic not only to Disney but to the lives of those who make it magical.

[Profile added in 2025]

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